Useful photograph
Complete subject, straight view, visible edge, good contrast and minimal shadow.
File preparation guide
What Makes a Useful Reference Image?
A practical checklist for photographs, sketches and files that reduce assumptions during custom-shape review.
Clear input, clearer review
Show the edge we are expected to reproduce.
A clean reference helps distinguish the real silhouette from shadows, perspective, decoration and background objects.
- Photograph the subject straight-on rather than at a steep angle
- Use even light and a plain contrasting background
- Keep the complete outer edge visible
- Add one known measurement or scale reference
Reference checklist
Useful, workable and risky inputs
We can review many file types, but the content of the file matters more than the extension.
Useful sketch
Closed outer line, clear proportions, labeled holes and one confirmed measurement.
Useful vector
Closed paths, correct scale, separate engraving lines and no duplicate geometry.
Risky perspective
An angled view can shorten one side and hide details, requiring interpretation.
Risky background
Busy objects or a similar color can make the true edge unclear.
Risky fine detail
Very small gaps, points and islands may need simplification or engraving.
Still unsure?
Send several views and label the preferred one.
We can tell you which reference is most useful during manual project review.